India approves Rafale jet purchase in $40 billion defense package ahead of Macron visit
A French Aerospace Force Rafale fighter jet takes off from Air Base 120 in Cazaux, southwestern France, during exercise TOPAZE 2026 on January 29, 2026. Exercise TOPAZE 2026 tests rapid redeployment capabilities and operational response in simulated high-intensity combat conditions. (Photo: Philippe LOPEZ / AFP via Getty Images)
Philippe Lopez | Afp | Getty Images
India on Thursday approved the purchase of Rafale fighter jets from France, marking one of its largest aircraft orders, ahead of French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to the country.
The approval was part of New Delhi’s approval. 3.6 trillion rupees ($39.7 billion) defense spending package It involves multiple acquisitions across the armed forces.
The Ministry of Defense did not specify how many aircraft would be ordered. Local media reported India to purchase 114 Rafale jets, 18 of which will be provided by the manufacturer Dassault The remaining 96 are domestic production.
The broader package includes Boeing P8I Poseidon reconnaissance aircraft for its navy, anti-tank mines for ground forces and upgrades to Soviet-era T-72 tanks and BMP-2 infantry fighting vehicles.
The new aircraft is expected to help address the shortage in the Indian air force, which operates 29 squadrons against a minimum of 42 squadrons, according to a 2024 parliamentary report.
air force recently two retired squadrons Cold War era MiG-21 fighter jets in September 2025 phase out additional aircraft in the coming years.
The Rafale purchase follows another order in April. 26 Rafale-Marine fighters For the Indian Navy. Dassault said India will be the first to operate this variant outside France.
Rafale jets were used by the Indian Air Force during the conflict with Pakistan in 2025; at least one plane Reported missing in combat against Islamabad’s Chinese-made J-10Cs.
Macron, who will be in India between February 17 and 19, is scheduled to meet with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss expanding cross-sector bilateral cooperation.
The two leaders will also launch the India-France Year of Innovation and attend the AI Impact Summit in New Delhi. indian foreign ministry.
“The leaders will discuss regional and global issues of mutual interest, including cooperation in the Indo-Pacific,” the statement said.
